GS1 – 128 Label description and purpose
The GS1 – 128 (formerly known as the UCC-128 label) is the most often used in the retail and manufacturing industries. This label is placed on the packaging container, usually on a pallet or a carton. When the carton is received, the recipient scans the label (usually on a conveyer belt with an automatic scanner) and the inventory levels are automatically updated. The MAN-002 element in the 856 is the unique barcode ID. The following is an example of a Label:
Shipping labels make all cartons in the supply chain “visible”. A common EDI shipping label is divided in some pre-defined zones. Each of these zones carries some specific information – text or barcode format. Zone 1 -usually bottom zone – contains SSCC-18 barcode. This barcode is usually connected EDI document that holds the content information about the definite carton. There are some specific in using label for retail industry. As there are many retailers, there exist many demands and requirements for labels. For example, many retailers use Store/Destination barcode (usually Zone G).
The barcodes on the label must be GS1-128 compliant according to GS1 General Specifications. Application Identifier specifies the data format as well as the purpose which each zone has. With the help of the label the data is encoded as well as it provides the method of encrypting its meaning (a list of “Application Identifiers” (AI’s)).
Modern business and retail demand unique identifiers for each product. The needed identifier must be unique and correspond global standards. For example, in the United States this product identifier is the UPC number (GTIN-12.). It consists of a U.P.C. Company Prefix and a Product Number. GS1 US as a non-profit organization assigns the U.P.C. Company Prefix.
GS1 is the party that manages the database of company prefixes. Also the company is responsible for world wide development and implementation of markings and commerce communication standards.